Several years ago, I was looking for a place to serve in Christian ministry. I just simply was looking for something that God wanted me to do. To keep this short and sweet, I found Clown Ministry. I prayed and prayed asking God to show me the direction he wanted me to go and where to serve. At first I thought, "Me, a clown. Never! I couldn't do that." After much praying, God said, "Yes you can." So here I am today, a clown, and LOVING IT. I started studying clowning on my own by searching the internet and buying tons of books and videos. Through a friend, I came in contact with the Joymakers (First Baptist Church of Roanoke, Clown Ministry) and continue to participate with the Joymakers in many of their volunteer events.

Through much trial and error (and lots of money wasted), I finally figured out clowning. You may wonder what I mean by "I figured out clowning." Well, clowning is more than just putting on a colored wig, some paint on the face, and a baggy costume. Did you know that the word Clown comes from the word clod--like a clod of dirt? Clowns are to lower themselves and put others first. There's a whole history of clowning and how it can effectively be used in worshipping God.

Are you interested in starting a clown ministry at your church? If so, you can call First Baptist Church (Roanoke) at (540) 224-3300 and ask for more information about the Joymakers. I know they would be happy to help you start your own clown ministry at your church. Clown ministry involves understanding the history of clowning, correctly applying the makeup (and it's not the Halloween makeup you buy at Walmart), the costume, and the skills such as balloon twisting, facepainting, skits, or gospel illusions.

"Whatever you do, do it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men..."